St. Ezequiel Moreno y Díaz: Life, Patronage, and Canonization

ST.EZEKIEL MORENO Y DIAS

St. Ezequiel Moreno y Díaz was a Spanish priest and bishop who dedicated his life to missionary work in the Philippines and Colombia. He was known for his deep spirituality, dedication to the Gospel, and service to the sick and needy. His patronage of those suffering from cancer is widely recognized. Canonized in 1992 by Pope John Paul II, his life of service and suffering continues to inspire many.

St. Ezequiel Moreno y Díaz, born on April 9, 1848, in Alfaro, La Rioja, Spain, entered the Order of Agustinian Recollects at the age of 16. He made his profession in 1865 and was ordained a priest in 1871 in Manila, Philippines. After his ordination, he devoted 15 years to missionary work, spreading the Gospel in the Philippine Islands, particularly Palawan and Mindoro, where he served with great dedication. His tireless efforts and zeal for the Gospel made him beloved by the people he served.

In 1888, St. Ezequiel was sent to Colombia, where he worked tirelessly to restore the presence of the Agustinian Recollects in the country. He played an instrumental role in the establishment of missions and parishes, particularly in the region of Casanare. In 1893, he was appointed the Vicario Apostólico of Casanare, and two years later, he became the Bishop of Pasto.

His deep commitment to the faith was evident in his pastoral work, his care for the poor and marginalized, and his dedication to the sick, especially those suffering from cancer. His motto, “Una sola alma vale más que toda mi vida” ("One soul is worth more than all my life"), encapsulated his approach to ministry: selfless, humble, and focused on the salvation of souls. Throughout his life, he faced numerous challenges, including periods of ill health, but he remained steadfast in his mission.

In 1905, St. Ezequiel was diagnosed with cancer. Despite his own suffering, he continued to minister to the faithful, demonstrating great patience and fortitude. He returned to Spain in 1906 to receive treatment but passed away on August 19, 1906, at the Convento de Monteagudo, where his body is preserved. His life of sacrifice and service continues to inspire Catholics around the world.

Pope Paul VI beatified St. Ezequiel on November 1, 1975, and Pope John Paul II canonized him on October 11, 1992, during the Fifth Centenary of the Evangelization of the Americas. His canonization highlighted his exemplary Christian life and his profound contribution to the Church's mission, particularly in the fields of evangelization and care for the sick.

St. Ezequiel Moreno y Díaz is the patron saint of those suffering from cancer. His incorrupt body is housed in the Convento de Nuestra Señora del Camino in Monteagudo, Navarra, Spain, and many pilgrims come to venerate him, seeking his intercession for healing and strength.

Feast Day

19-8-1906

Birth Date

9-4-1848

Died Date

19-8-1906

Canonised Date

11-10-1992

Convento de Nuestra Señora del Camino, Monteagudo, Navarra, Spain

"O God, who in Your wonderful providence, called St. Ezequiel to labor for the Gospel and bear witness to the truth even in the face of suffering, grant us, through his intercession, the grace to carry our crosses with patience and joy. May we imitate his zeal in spreading Your Word and serving the poor and sick. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
ST.EZEKIEL MORENO Y DIAS

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ST.EZEKIEL MORENO Y DIAS

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